Cross-sectional study on skin prick test reactivity to common aeroallergens among allergic rhinitis patients in Southern India

Abstract Background Allergic rhinitis (AR) is the most common cause of rhinitis impairing quality of life. The prevalence of allergic rhinitis varies considerably across countries and regions. Our cross-sectional study aims to identify the common aero-allergens in a tertiary care hospital in Southern India. Methods A cross-sectional study of 50 patients with allergic rhinitis was done over a period of 6 months in a tertiary care center in Southern India. Skin prick test was performed on the eligible candidates and correlated with their symptoms. Results The most common presentation was sneezing (96%). The majority were found to be sensitized to more than one set of allergens. The most common allergen was found to be house dust mite (D. Farinae 58%, D. pteronyssinus 54%, Blomia 48%), followed by Parthenium (38%) and Cockroach (32%). Conclusion Our results explore the clinical profile of allergic rhinitis patients and its correlation with skin prick tests. The most common aero-allergen found was house dust mite.